electrical

Turn Signal Bulb - Rear

for 2017 Ford F-150 3.5L V6 EcoBoost · RWD

Difficulty

Easy

Time

12 min

Tools

Steps

✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.

This procedure covers replacement of the rear turn signal bulb on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150. Access is gained from inside the bed by removing the tail lamp assembly.

Warnings

⚠Allow tail lamps to cool completely before attempting bulb replacement to avoid burns

ℹ️Use only amber bulbs for turn signals; clear bulbs may cause incorrect light color and visibility issues

Tools required

10mm socket or wrenchEssential

Small flat-head screwdriver

Clean cloth or gloves

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Parts

Rear turn signal bulb - 7443 amber bulb × 1 — 3157A or 7443A amber bulb

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Preparation

Lower the tailgate for easier access to the tail lamp assembly
Identify which side requires bulb replacement (driver or passenger)
Ensure vehicle is in Park with ignition off

Procedure

1
Access tail lamp assembly
From inside the bed, locate the tail lamp assembly mounting nuts on the inner bed side panel. There are two 10mm nuts securing each tail lamp assembly to the bed.
2
Remove tail lamp mounting nuts
Using a 10mm socket or wrench, remove the two nuts securing the tail lamp assembly. Keep these nuts in a safe place for reinstallation.
3
Pull tail lamp assembly out
Carefully pull the tail lamp assembly straight back away from the bed. It may require gentle wiggling to disengage the alignment pins. Do not pull on the wiring harness.
4
Locate turn signal bulb socket
On the back of the tail lamp assembly, identify the turn signal bulb socket. It is typically the amber-colored socket located in the upper or middle position depending on configuration.
5
Remove bulb socket
Rotate the turn signal bulb socket counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn and pull it straight out from the lamp housing.
6
Remove failed bulb
Pull the old bulb straight out from the socket. If the bulb is stuck, gently wiggle while pulling. Inspect the socket for corrosion or damage.
7
Install new bulb
Insert the new 7443 amber bulb straight into the socket until it seats completely. Do not touch the glass portion of the bulb with bare fingers as oils can cause hot spots and premature failure.
8
Reinstall bulb socket
Insert the bulb socket into the tail lamp housing and rotate clockwise 1/4 turn until it locks in place. Ensure it is fully seated.
9
Test turn signal operation
Before reinstalling the lamp assembly, turn the ignition to the ON position and activate the turn signal to verify the new bulb illuminates properly and blinks at the correct rate.
10
Reinstall tail lamp assembly
Align the tail lamp assembly with the mounting holes and alignment pins on the bed. Push the assembly straight in until it is flush with the bed surface.
11
Install mounting nuts
Thread the two 10mm mounting nuts onto the studs by hand, then tighten securely with a 10mm socket or wrench. Tighten evenly but do not overtighten as this may crack the lamp housing.

Reassembly

Ensure tail lamp assembly is flush with bed surface and properly aligned
Verify both mounting nuts are tight and the assembly does not move when pressed

Verification

Turn ignition to ON and activate the turn signal to verify proper operation and correct flash rate
Walk around vehicle to visually confirm the turn signal is illuminating amber and is visible from behind
Check that all other tail lamp functions (brake, running lights, reverse) still operate correctly